Sudhindra likely to seek legal action against ban

The top-flight cricket didn’t look too far away when TP Sudhindra collected 40 wickets in the 2011-12 Ranji season — the highest by any bowler. On the back of his stellar showing, he would have been a serious contender for a berth in the India ‘A’ squad that’s currently in the West Indies.

The top-flight cricket didn’t look too far away when TP Sudhindra collected 40 wickets in the 2011-12 Ranji season — the highest by any bowler. On the back of his stellar showing, he would have been a serious contender for a berth in the India ‘A’ squad that’s currently in the West Indies.

A momentous indiscretion, however, has changed the course of his blossoming career. Whatever little hope was left of escaping with minimal punishment was shattered on Saturday with the BCCI holding him guilty of actually receiving a consideration for spot-fixing in a local cricket in Indore and slapping a life ban on him.

He has been debarred of monthly gratis, benevolent fund, benefit match or any other facility provided by the board. Besides, he’s also been debarred from holding any position in any cricket association affiliated to the BCCI.

“I will take necessary steps on getting proper legal advice,” the pacer responded through an SMS when queried about his next move.

“It’s a double blow for Madhya Pradesh cricket especially with Mohnish Mishra also being banned for one year,” said Mukesh Sahni, the Madhya Pradesh Ranji coach.

“Sudhindra played a crucial role in state team’s success last season. Mishra also contributed handsomely but now as the verdict is out, the state cricket is bound to suffer,” he added. Sahni, however, approved of the BCCI’s decision, saying anyone who brings the game into disrepute should be punished.

Abhinav Bali, who plays for Himachal Pradesh and has been handed a one-year ban, however admitted he had made a mistake and had been punished for the same.